Andrew Johnson: The First Impeached U.S. President – February 24, 1868

On February 24, 1868, President Andrew Johnson made history as the first U.S. president to be impeached. The House of Representatives charged him with violating the Tenure of Office Act after he removed Secretary of War Edwin Stanton without congressional approval. This event marked a significant moment in presidential history, shaping the balance of power between the executive and legislative branches.

Why Was Andrew Johnson Impeached?

Andrew Johnson, who became president after Abraham Lincoln’s assassination, frequently clashed with Congress over Reconstruction policies. When he attempted to dismiss Edwin Stanton, Congress saw this as a violation of the Tenure of Office Act, which required Senate approval for removing certain officials. The House quickly voted to impeach Johnson, leading to a dramatic trial in the Senate.

The Impeachment Trial & Its Outcome

The Senate trial lasted several weeks, with tensions running high. In the end, Johnson narrowly avoided removal from office—by just one vote. Although he remained in office, his presidency was significantly weakened, and he did not win re-election.

The Impact of Johnson’s Impeachment

This impeachment set a precedent for future presidential impeachments, including those of Bill Clinton and Donald Trump. It also highlighted the ongoing struggle between the president and Congress over control of the federal government.

Conclusion

The impeachment of Andrew Johnson remains a pivotal moment in American history, reminding us of the delicate balance of power within the U.S. government. Had the Senate ruled differently, the presidency might have taken a very different course.